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Cadillac XLR-V

The Cadillac XLR-V is a higher performance XLR model that has been in production from 2006 to 2009. It was first introduced on a Super Bowl commercial in 2005. For a time, it was one of the highest-priced Cadillac vehicles made. Critics praised its powerful 443-hp, 4.4-liter V-8 and its impressive handling capability, which they believed justified the price. All models are a coupe style and seat two with a front-engine layout, long hood, and angular, but sporty, exterior features.

The XLR-V replaced an earlier high-end/high performance model, the Cadillac Allante, which was made from 1987 through 1993. There is no information currently available on future production or a successor.

The XLR-V is a domestic, luxury roadster with lots of power. It’s a good alternative to the European models in its class, including the BMW M6 convertible, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, and Jaguar XKR. It stacks up well against its competitors when it comes to power. The XLR-V’s 443-hp, 4.4-liter V-8 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds according to a Car and Driver test. A governance system maxes out speed at 155 mph and no confirmed information is available on top speeds without electronic limiters at this time. Compared to most competitors, the XLR-V is known for superior performance first, and a generous range of luxury features second.

Unfortunately, despite its high-powered engine, the XLR-V hasn’t been able to gain the top spot in its class against other luxury roadsters. Its look is not quite as refined and the handling is not quite as impressive. Critics also say that the interior comes up short. Although it features high-quality leather seats and wood trim, many of the other interior components lack the look that you’d expect of a car in this high-end class. Lack of headroom also poses a problem for taller drivers.

Cadillac XLR-V Features

The 2009 Cadillac XLR-V has the same 443-hp, 4.4-liter V-8 as the previous models, with a handful of additional features. This supercharged engine boasts 443 hp and 414 lb-ft of torque. It uses a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and manual-shift capability. Other performance features include four-wheel disc antilock brakes, sport adaptive suspension, rear magnetic fluid shocks, speed sensitive steering, and an electronic stability system. For a roadster, the XLR-V comes in at a respectable of fuel efficiency, reaching 14/25 mpg city/highway, or 17 mpg combined.

The XLR-V comes fully equipped with all features available with the XLR models. Some notable luxury features include standard leather and genuine wood interior, heads-up LCD display, one-touch power windows, power locks, keyless entry, tilt steering, heated eight-way power seats, in-dash six-disc CD changer, Bluetooth, voice recognition entertainment and navigation system, speed sensitive volume, parking assist, and advanced security features, such as stolen vehicle tracking; airbags for the front, side-impact, side curtain, and knees; traction control and stability control; and high intensity headlights. The headlights have delay and are daytime running.

Cadillac XLR-V Evolution

Cadillac was founded more than 100 years ago in Detroit, Michigan—the center of U.S. auto manufacturing. Cadillac is credited with introducing the first electric self-starting engine and being one of the leaders in the integration of computer technology into their vehicles. Throughout the years, Cadillac continues to set the standard for American-made luxury and reliability. In 2003, Cadillac introduced the XLR roadster, competing with European sports cars, such as the Porsche 911 and the BMW 6 Series. In spite of low XLR sales, Cadillac went even further in 2006, when they released a supercharged version—XLR-V.

The XLR-V was only available for four years, from 2006 through 2009. By 2009, the economy was not doing well. Car manufacturers were restructuring and General Motors, parent company of the Cadillac brand, was no different. By focusing only on their most profitable models, Cadillac discontinued the luxury XLR and XLR-V.

All models had the same basic style and an identical 443-hp, 4.4-liter, V-8 engine. Features from model year to model year did change somewhat, and price went up each consecutive year, starting with an MSRP of $97,485 and increasing to $104,215 by 2009.